The design of a rural Coptic church in Ethiopia reflects simplicity and functionality, deeply rooted in tradition and the natural environment. It features four detached U-shaped walls forming a cross, a significant Christian symbol. The main access is from a forecourt. The church has no church door and the entrance is through the gaps between the walls. This house of worship is intentionally roofless, embracing the open sky and connecting worshippers with nature. Constructed from local materials, the walls seamlessly blend with the landscape. These walls are spaced to define four quadrants, of which three house the benches for worshippers. These seating areas are designed to accommodate the congregation comfortably, with benches arranged to face the central area and the altar, fostering a sense of community and collective worship. The remaining quadrant is designated for the altar. This sacred area is where the priest conducts the liturgy and other religious ceremonies.
The central point of the cross, formed by the imaginary intersection of the U-shaped walls, features a lower, square depression. This unique design element serves three purposes: it functions as a round seating area for smaller gatherings as well as a baptismal area, and it also acts as a basin to collect rainwater for the nomads. This integration of water collection highlights the church’s harmony with its environment and the practical needs of the rural community. Four large local trees strategically placed at the corners provide shade and protection, reflecting the local flora and enhancing the church’s environmental sustainability. The open-air design creates a tranquil and reflective space, with the interplay of light and shadow through the tree canopy adding a dynamic quality to the worship experience. The church’s layout emphasizes communal and inclusive worship practices.
